What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a dangerous form of cancer caused by long-term exposure to asbestos. Sharp, microscopic asbestos fibers enter the body through inhalation, and serve as an irritant to your organs. This irritation can eventually leading to scarring and cancerous tumor growth in the mesothelium membrane that surrounds body cavities.

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a term used to describe seven fibrous minerals once commonly utilized in the manufacture of various materials, including building insulation. It was banned in the United States by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) after being linked to numerous health concerns. Asbestos remains a problem, however, because there are many natural deposits found throughout the United States. In addition, individuals working with buildings or materials constructed prior to the EPA’s ban face the risk of exposure.

Who is at risk?

Due to the prevalence of asbestos, almost all people have been exposed at some point in their lives. Individuals at risk of asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma, however, are people who have spent long periods of time working in conditions where asbestos is prevalent. Certain industries carry higher risk factors than others, including construction, shipbuilding, energy, cement manufacturing, steel manufacturing, and paper production.

Where do I stand legally?

Talk to one of our national mesothelioma lawyers at the Nemeroff Law Firm if you or someone in your family has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness. You could have a case against an employer or company where asbestos was prevalent in your job site.

What is the statute of limitations on my case?

Each state has a different statute of limitations law – meaning if you past the deadline given, you will be unable to pursue legal action. Our firm handles cases in all 50 states. We can help you assess your situation and understand your legal options.

Mesothelioma Facts

• Around 3,000 people are diagnosed annually with mesothelioma, and approximately 2,500 people die from the condition each year. In the 11-year period from 1999 to 2010, over 31,000 people in the United States died from this cancer.

• Ninety percent of mesothelioma victims are over age 60.

• According to statistics up to the year 2013, only 5 to 7 percent of sufferers live five years or more.

• Most mesothelioma deaths occur in California, New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania.

• Men are five times more likely to develop the condition than women.

• Many industrialized countries are expected to see their mesothelioma rates increase by 5 percent to 10 percent each year until 2020.

• Currently, millions of workers are being exposed to asbestos and being put at risk of developing mesothelioma in the coming years. Worldwide, 125 million people are subjected to asbestos in the workplace.

• U.S. military servicemen and women are exposed to asbestos as they serve due to its use in battleships, etc.

• Asbestos fibers come in two different types: amphibole and serpentine. Due to its shape, the amphibole fiber can more easily lodge in tissue, making it more deadly.

• Whites and Hispanics/Latinos suffer from a higher rate of mesothelioma than do African and Asian Americans.

• Two to ten percent of those who were exposed to high levels of asbestos for a long period of time will develop pleural mesothelioma.

• Seventy to ninety percent of mesothelioma cases are pleural mesothelioma.

• Over half of those diagnosed with mesothelioma will be put in a clinical trial.